9 Cozy Spots to Escape this Brutal Winter in NYC

Winter in New York City can be brutally cold, with temperatures dropping to lows you'd rather not think about and wind chills making it almost impossible to withstand. That said, you may often find yourself tempted to hibernate just so you don’t have to face the cold.

But before you make any rash decisions to hide away in your apartment until the birds chirp and flowers bloom, check out these 9 cozy spots to escape from a brutal NYC winter (by the way, many of these are perfect for cozy, lil' date night).

1. Shalel Lounge (65 West 70th Street)

[via untappedcities]

Nestled on the Upper West Side, Shalel Lounge is the perfect spot to sweep your date off their feet during these chilly winter months. This hidden gem is dimly lit, with seductive vanilla incense that lures you in and fresh rose petals sprinkled along the floor. Their tables have cozy pillows and toasty candles, creating a truly intimate vibe. If you’re looking to entice your date with romance, this is your go-to spot.

[anad]

2. Third Floor Cafe (315 5th Avenue)

[via Facebook]

This chic lounge has quite the alluring ambiance with its golden drapes, plush couches, and warm candles that illuminate the dark wooden tables. Their daily happy hour offers dinner with a complimentary drink for just $14, making it a very affordable place to meet after work. If you’d rather cozy up there on the weekend, you can head over on a Sunday to enjoy all-day spaghetti with a complimentary martini or house wine— talk about comfort food, right?

3. Mulberry Project (49 Mulberry Street)

[via citybuzz.com]

Look no further than Mulberry Project if you want to discover a hidden speakeasy where the bartenders make you your very own personalized drink.

This cozy little spot is tucked beneath an unassuming souvenir shop in Little Italy, boasts an eclectic atmosphere, and showcases art by notable street artists on its stone walls.

Intimate with its lights turned low, Mulberry Project is a fantastically-snug place to hang out on any cold winter night.

4. The Otheroom (143 Perry Street)

[via Flickr]

The Otheroom is located on a picturesque tree-lined street in West Village, but it's easy to miss if you aren’t looking for it.

This spot is dark, sexy, and quaint-- which means you’ll fit right in if you’re looking to snuggle up with your beau or catch up with your close friends.

The mellow and low-key atmosphere is conducive to relaxing, sipping on wine or beer, or even engaging in great conversations on a quiet weeknight.

5. Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar (11 West 31st Street)

[via Yelp]

As if “wine” and “chocolate” in the name weren’t enough temptation, Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar also features complimentary treats on specific days.

Come on Sunday for Couples Night Out, and you and your date can savor complimentary Jacques Torres chocolate truffles — or head over on Tuesday for Girlfriends Night Out, and you and your ladies can enjoy a complimentary chocolate shot and Belgian chocolate-covered strawberries!

Its trendy wooden interior and soft lighting also make it a great winter escape.

6. At Nine Restaurant & Bar (592 9th Avenue)

[via Yelp]

At Nine Restaurant & Bar is a charming, hole-in-the-wall spot in Hell’s Kitchen, crafting an intimate vibe with its swanky leather couches and large chandelier dangling gracefully from the ceiling.

One side of the restaurant is perfectly accommodating for date night, as it’s lined with two-person tables softly lit by candles. And with a delicious Thai menu and decently strong $6 martinis, this is a place you just can’t pass up.

7. Bohemian (57 Great Jones Street)

[via chefmonsta.com]

If you fancy a unique dining experience at a ritzy, members-only restaurant, make your way to NoHo and dine at Bohemian.

This exclusive and stylish Japanese spot is nestled in the back of a building that was previously owned by Andy Warhol.

The space is tiny and elegant with a simplistic décor style and features American and Japanese cocktails that bartenders present to you by shining a spotlight on them. At night, Bohemian transforms into a cozy lounge-like atmosphere with a mix of jazz, Japanese, and bossa nova music.

8. Alta (64 West 10th Street)

[via Flickr]

Make your way to Alta in Greenwich Village if you’re looking to warm up by a toasty fireplace that generously heats up a rustic and dimly lit second floor. You’ll also be able to enjoy some tasty tapas, from Grilled Shrimp and Chorizo Skewers to Gorgonzola Gnocchi. This spot is definitely a cozy retreat to escape to for an evening.

9. Rolf's German Restaurant (281 3rd Avenue)

[via flickr.com]

With their elaborate decorations during the holiday season, Rolf's is a festive place to head over the harsh winter months. With lights, ornaments, and pine galore, this place will make you feel like you're at a magical garden party. You can enjoy German cuisine dishes, such as Bratwurst, Schnitzel, and German Apple Crêpe, and pair them with some imported beer. Grab a date to eat, drink, and be merry, right?